Human Rights Watch’s Asia Director Brad Adams said last week the New York-based organisation does not expect Sri Lanka to conduct a credible investigation into mass atrocities committed during the armed conflict.

Speaking to IPS ahead of Foreign Minister Mangala Samaraweera’s visit to the US this week, where he will meet with US officials and representatives of HRW, Mr Adams said the UN should continue to be central to the current process.

“We do not expect the government to conduct a serious investigation,” he said when asked about the government’s proposed domestic investigation, pointing out former army commander Sarath Fonseka’s presence in the government would politicise a domestic probe.

“The United Nations should continue to be at the centre of the current process,” he said, but complimented the new government for reaching out to HRW. “We are very encouraged and we are happy to meet with the foreign minister.”

Deputy director for Asia-Pacific at Amnesty International, David Griffiths, told IPS President Sirisena and other officials in the new administration have made pledges which are to be welcomed, but that the change in rhetoric must be matched by a change in political will, highlighting Amnesty’s report into Sri Lanka’s long history of failed commission and inquiries.

“These are important pledges which are to be welcomed, provided that the investigations are conducted promptly and in good faith, with independence, adequate resources and effective witness protection, and provided that where sufficient admissible evidence exists, they lead to the prosecution of those suspected of the crimes, regardless of their rank or status.”

“Any domestic investigation would not negate the need for continued international action and engagement to ensure justice and accountability in Sri Lanka, or Sri Lanka’s need to cooperate with the United Nations,” he said.

“Amnesty International cannot stress enough the need for justice for the victims of appalling human rights abuses and their families,” Mr Griffiths said.